Back-to-school season is here, and if you’re like most parents, you’re looking for ways to save without sacrificing quality. In 2025, back-to-school shopping can quickly add up—but it doesn’t have to! With a few smart strategies, you can find budget-friendly school supplies, clothes, and essentials while staying on track with your family’s budget. From taking inventory of last year’s items to using tax-free weekends, frugal school shopping tips for 2025 are easier than ever. Keep reading for practical advice, cost-saving hacks, and a printable checklist to make this back-to-school season stress-free and affordable.
Why I Wait to Shop to Save Money on School Clothes
I know school is back in session in some parts of the country already, but we don’t go back to school until August 28th. I like to shop for the new school year over the course of a few weeks (sometimes months). Instead of shoving all of our shopping into 1-2 days, I shop smart by waiting for sales to make purchases.
This year Ailey goes to first grade and Annabelle is in fourth grade. We are using the backpacks we bought last year because they held up so well! Their favorite backpacks and lunchboxes are currently on sale for up to 50% off (Pottery Barn Kids). I have also seen great discounted backpacks at Primark, Lands End (up to 40% off!), and LL Bean (up to 50% off).
My favorite stores for clothing are having sales: pricier high quality at 40% off and less expensive but good quality end of season sale. We will buy a few warm weather outfits for the new school year, but will wait to buy cool weather items until mid-September. There is no point in purchasing long sleeves, pants, and sweaters when it could be 80 the first few weeks of school.
8 Ways to Save Money on Back to School Shopping
- Take stock of what you have at home – Did you buy a big box of glue sticks last year and shove them in a closet somewhere? I know I did… Amazon always has inexpensive items in bulk we need throughout the year (or donate to the classroom) that I stock up on!
- Make a clear list of what you need to avoid impulse purchases.
- Spread out purchases – don’t shop all at once and wait for sales/tax free week (next week!). This study shares the cheapest places to buy school supplies in 2025.
- Split bulk deals with friends – especially if your kids are in the same class or neighborhood.
- Compare prices of big ticket items before you buy (especially electronics!).
- Look for discounts – follow stores on social media for special flash sales and coupons. For example, Pottery Barn Kids is hosting a back to school sale right now!
- Wait it out – especially for clothing! Labor Day/Columbus Day sales are the best time to buy cold weather clothes – not now when it is still hot outside!
- Shop second hand clothing or do a clothing swap with friends who are different sizes. There is nothing wrong with a good hand-me-down.
Bonus: Don’t forget to check for any Tax Free Week sales! Many states, including Connecticut, offer tax-free weekends for back-to-school shopping. In Connecticut, the tax-free period runs from August 16–22, 2025, allowing you to save on clothing and footwear purchases. Shoppers can buy clothing items for under $100 each as well as some school supplies.
Frugal back-to-school shopping in 2025 doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning ahead, comparing prices, and taking advantage of deals, you can equip your kids with everything they need for a successful school year—all while sticking to your budget. Remember to explore secondhand and sustainable options and embrace digital tools for even more savings. These simple strategies will help you make the most of your back-to-school budget and start the year off right, without overspending.
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